What is Janus?

While not everyone has to be a member of a union, those who choose not to be members are currently required to pay a fair share or agency fee to be protected and represented by the union. The Janus v. AFSCME case before the U.S. Supreme Court could eliminate the union’s ability to collect those fair share or agency fees from those individuals for the many benefits the union provides. An unfavorable decision in the Janus case would allow those individuals to unfairly receive those benefits without paying for them.

The Janus case does not affect payroll deduction of dues, the union’s obligation to represent all members of the bargaining unit, or any collective bargaining rights.

Janus is part of a broader agenda to weaken unions and destroy public education, brought to us by the same forces who have been defunding public services.

Why does Janus matter?

If our voice is diminished, our students, public education, those we serve, and our democracy will lose.

Collectively, we have more influence at the bargaining table to protect workers’ benefits and working conditions.

Together, we have more influence at the state and local levels to advocate for issues that impact Rhode Island middle class, students, and all workers.

When our union is strong, we have better working conditions, and our students have better learning conditions.

What can I do about it?

Sign a commitment card with your local.

Ask your local leaders what events and issues are coming up and stay engaged.

Connect with the statewide union, ensure you are on the email list for news and events by signing up.

What are we doing about it?

We are developing new ways to help locals address the interests and concerns of our members.

We built the strength of NEARI long before fair share or agency fee, and we will continue to thrive no matter the outcome of Janus.